My Hero Academia explores profound themes surrounding the intricacies and inherent flaws of its hero society—a framework established after the proliferation of Quirks. Interestingly, this critical viewpoint is subtly introduced in the very first chapter, masked by an otherwise cheerful narrative.
In the universe of My Hero Academia, the term “Hero Society”encapsulates the new social structure where superheroes and villains play pivotal roles in daily life. This system becomes the go-to solution for various crises, ranging from minor offenses to major villainous threats, and even extends to trivial matters such as rescuing a cat from a tree. Within Hero Society exists a culture of hero worship, where these figures are idolized as paragons of virtue, despite their significant flaws—exemplified by characters like Endeavor. However, a critical examination reveals that several systemic issues have persisted, evident even in the initial chapter.
Hero Society Was Flawed from the Start
The Immediate Recognition of Hero Worship and Dependency
At the outset of My Hero Academia, we encounter a scene where Deku witnesses a villainous assault while groups of civilians crowd around, filming the event with their mobile devices, seemingly oblivious to the peril surrounding them. Enthusiastically, Deku joins the throng and shares trivia about the heroes involved, reflecting a widespread sense of detachment. Notably, as Mt. Lady makes her dramatic entrance, she too revels in the spotlight despite the chaos unfolding just beyond the fanfare.
This celebratory atmosphere is further amplified when, later in the chapter, Bakugo falls victim to the Sludge Villain’s attack. While the heroes express genuine concern for Bakugo, the spectators are filled with joy at the mere prospect of All Might’s potential arrival, equating the frightening face-off to a spectacle rather than a serious threat. This contrast sharpens upon reflection, particularly when considering the criticisms that emerge regarding Hero Society; the civilians’ reliance on heroes has fostered a misguided perception of danger as mere entertainment.
My Hero Academia’s Civilians Required a Reality Check
Civilians’ Reactions in Crisis Highlight the Issue
From the outset, it becomes evident that civilians perceive the conflict between heroes and villains as an exaggerated spectacle, detached from the potential consequences. One onlooker even prioritizes a mundane phone call to inform his employer about his delay, treating the encounter as casually as one might a minor traffic mishap. This disconnect showcases a dangerous confidence in the abilities of heroes to effortlessly manage crises, leading to careless behavior in the face of real danger.
Deku reflects an extreme case of fandom towards heroes, but his attitude resonates with broader societal complacency as seen in the reactions of the civilians around him. Initially, these instances appear to trivialize dangerous encounters, indicating a troubling disconnect from the severity of villainous threats. Thus, when the League of Villains begins to mount serious attacks, the public’s shock is palpable; they have long operated under the illusion that heroes are infallible, able to mop up any ensuing chaos without question.
This trust is quickly shattered once heroes falter in addressing a situation, leading to an immediate reversal of public support as they confront the harsh reality that these heroes, too, are fallible. The narrative demonstrates how Hero Society in My Hero Academia is precariously built, veiled beneath a veneer of joy, yet filled with cracks that become starkly visible as the layers of complacency peel away.
For further insights, read more about the flaws in My Hero Academia’s societal structure here.
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